Creation Is Groaning
John Piper explains that believers, though still facing the struggle of flesh versus spirit and physical death, are assured of salvation and empowered by the Spirit to mortify sin and live in righteousness through Christ.
This sermon delves into the deep theological insights of Romans 8, emphasizing the struggle between the flesh and the Spirit, the assurance of no condemnation for believers, the significance of Christ's work in taking on our sins, the process of sanctification through the Spirit, the reality of suffering in the Christian life, and the hope of future glorification and inheritance as children of God.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The law weakened by the flesh cannot save
- Believers are not controlled by the flesh but by the Spirit
- Spirit of God and Spirit of Christ are one
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II
- The reality of physical death remains for believers
- The Spirit gives life because of righteousness
- Justification and imputation of Christ's righteousness
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III
- Believers are debtors to the Spirit, not the flesh
- Warning against living according to the flesh leads to death
- Security of the elect and the necessity of mortification of sin
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IV
- Put to death the deeds of the body by the Spirit
- Use the Word of God as the sword of the Spirit
- Faith and the Spirit’s power enable victory over sin
Key Quotes
“Be killing sin or it will be killing you.” — John Piper
“If you live according to the flesh you will die; if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live.” — John Piper
“The Spirit of God and Spirit of Christ are one Spirit, and anyone who has the Spirit belongs to Jesus.” — John Piper
Application Points
- Recognize that being in the Spirit means daily surrender to God’s control rather than the flesh.
- Use the Word of God actively as a weapon to fight sin through the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Live with the assurance of salvation while maintaining a serious commitment to mortify sin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be 'not in the flesh but in the Spirit'?
It means believers are no longer controlled by sinful nature but live under the influence and power of the Holy Spirit.
How can believers be assured of salvation despite ongoing sin?
Because Christ has done the decisive work on the cross, believers are justified and secure, but they must continually mortify sin by the Spirit.
Why does physical death still happen to Christians?
Physical death remains as a consequence of sin and the fall, but believers have the hope of resurrection and glorified bodies.
What is meant by 'putting to death the deeds of the body'?
It refers to actively resisting and overcoming sinful actions and desires through the power of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God.
How does the Word of God function in spiritual warfare?
The Word of God is the sword of the Spirit, used to combat sin and temptation by faith and reliance on the Spirit’s power.